Current Issues in the Recycling of Metal Materials with Chemical Composition of Scrap

Abstract

The recycling of metal materials contributes not only to reduction of Greenhouse gas emissions but also to reduction of natural resource consumptions. On the other hand, it has been pointed out that presence of alloying elements and impurity elements poses a constraint on recycling. This paper discusses the constraints on recycling of metal materials focusing on the chemical composition of scrap. The recycling of metal materials is constrained by the uncertainty in the chemical composition of metal scrap, which limits the chemical compositions that can be produced and the volume of production. Various technologies have been proposed to address this issue. However, to ensure the sustainability of the recycling industry, economic feasibility must also be considered. To design an optimal recycling system, it is necessary to conduct an analysis that considers not only the uncertainty in the chemical composition of the scrap but also economic feasibility.